We've entered the best time of year: tomato season. Warmed by the hot summer sun, the plump, sweet and earthy fruits are hard to resist when pulled from the vine. A stunning appetizer or salad, this tomato carpaccio comes together quickly and balances the fresh taste of tomatoes with the zing of a caper dressing.

Crunchy, fresh and invigorating, it's nearly impossible to think about cucumbers without instantly craving a bite of one. Brought to Italy in the 8th century, they quickly became a staple in Italian vegetable gardens. Shaved into salads, juiced into a cocktail, or pureed into a soup, there are endless possibilities for how to incorporate the cooling vegetable into your diet.

From Italy's northernmost region of Terntino-Alto Adige to its southernmost tip of Sicily, succulent stone fruits sweeten Italy from May through September. Offering the irresistibly juicy, sweet, and tart tastes of summertime, we've compiled some of our favorite ways to incorporate the Italian treat into your summer menus.

Bring the fresh and bright flavors of James Beard Award winning chef Karen Akunowicz home with her Peach and Tomato Panzanella Salad. Tossed with her exclusive Bona Furtuna Chef's Blend extra virgin olive oil, savor the nuance of her culinary finesse with every bite.

Due to its mild and Mediterranean climate, Sicily's sweet and luscious stone fruits begin to ripen at the beginning of summer and are available through to the start of autumn. Draped in salty prosciutto and creamy burrata, this salad is quite simply addictive.